Alberta Party succeeds in getting lifetime ban for medical professionals who abuse patients

Posted: November 8, 2018

November 8, 2018 (Edmonton) – Thanks to the tireless efforts of Alberta Party MLA Karen McPherson, the government has agreed to put in place stronger protections for patients who have been sexually abused by medical professionals.

After defeating an amendment by McPherson that proposed a lifetime ban for medical professionals who sexually abused patients, the government subsequently decided that such a ban is necessary.

“I’m so pleased the government sees the need for a lifetime ban for findings of sexual assault.” said McPherson.

“I proposed a ban for medical professionals who sexually abused patients because it’s the right thing to do. It was an amendment that came about as a result of conversations with stakeholders, and I proposed it in good faith.”

MLA McPherson also proposed an amendment that would mean complaint tribunals receive training on how to appropriately deal with complaints of sexual misconduct.

“I’m pleased that we were able to work with the government to make sure this piece of legislation is as strong as possible.”

“I hope that with the changes we made today, survivors of sexual assault will know that this issue is being taken very seriously.”